Spooky STEAM Night at SHAPE American Elementary
SHAPE, Belgium — SHAPE Elementary School hosted a Spooktacular Spooky STEAM Night. Nearly 1,700 parents, students, and volunteers enjoyed an evening filled with hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) activities, all with a spooky twist. The event featured more than thirty interactive stations sponsored by school staff, military units, and community partners.
Dr. Stillman, Principal, shared the following about the event, “Spooky STEAM Night has become more than just a tradition of sorts for our community. It has become something that unites our community around one goal-serving students. The community involvement is incredible to see and we are fortunate to have such great teachers and volunteers both in our school and in our community. The event always builds morale and unity!”
The goal of Spooky STEAM Night was to spark curiosity and inspire students to explore the wonders of STEAM, while encouraging them to consider future careers in these fields. Student volunteers from SHAPE High School’s Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) and SHAPE Middle School’s National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) welcomed families, many in costume, and helped launch them into spooky-themed classrooms.
One of the highlights of the evening was the Candy Crime Scene, sponsored by CID Agents and MP Investigators. Students worked to solve the Case of the Missing Candy Jar using fingerprinting and other forensic science techniques. At the Burning Haunted House activity, mini firefighters tackled a simulated blaze, thanks to the 424th Air Base Squadron Fire Department First Responders. The 424th also hosted a Law & Motion monster combat station, where students learned how physics could help defend against spooky attackers.
The SHAPE International Library co-sponsored the Creepy Coding Critters and Squishy Circuits stations, where students programmed Ozobots, built snap circuits, and created “squishy circuits” using conductive playdough. Child and Youth Services (CYS) guided students in building spooky battery operated walking spider models powered by toothbrush motors.
Meanwhile, the SHAPE Healthcare Facility hosted the very popular Operation Cadaver Cabin, where students performed life-saving procedures on larger-than-life zombie patients using a three-meter-long game board inspired by the classic medical game.
More than 25 additional STEAM stations were led by SHAPE Elementary staff. Families built “bone bridges” from Q-Tips, tested spider web designs, launched mini catapults, and created alien hovercrafts. Attendees also enjoyed spooky photo souvenirs and took home artistic and sometimes edible creations.
Hot dogs were available for purchase to support the Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO), a co-sponsor of the event, and spooky treats were sold by the Girl Scouts. The night was a huge success, with families sharing stories of their favorite activities and expressing excitement for future events.
Thanks to the incredible support from our community, parents, teachers, and student volunteers, more STEAM-themed events are planned for the future. Interested in joining the fun and helping inspire the next generation? Contact Therese Blanchard or Kirsten Novo at SHAPE American Elementary to get involved.
